Countertop Options with Pros & Cons

The motive for the kitchen renovation maybe that you are sick and tired of the same old view each time you enter the kitchen, or it is simply outdated or damaged and no matter how much cleaning you do it still looks dirty and untidy, or it needs serious repairs to be done to protect the overall health of your property. Whatever your reason maybe we assure you that one key step in completing this project will be to select your countertop; your countertop will be the major part of your new kitchen’s aesthetic and its clean and tidy look.

You’ve heard and seen different types of countertops while researching ideas on your kitchen project. The overwhelming amount of product made of different materials.

This article will focus on most preferred countertop materials; it’s good and bad and helps you decide which may be a better fit for you and your household.

Currently, in the market, there are many different stone and wood options available for your new countertop. Here is a list of widely used countertops;

Quartz

Granite

Laminate

Bamboo

Marble

Butcher Block

Quartzite

Recycled Glass

Stainless Steel

Concrete

Soapstone

Tile

Within all these overwhelming options, a couple stands out the most. Consumer satisfaction report shows that most people who make Quartz, Granite or Laminate their end purchase are in fact happy with their purchases. Whether it is the viability, durability, elegance look or simply their affordability; whatever the reason may be there three countertops are leading choices amongst many households.

Quartz Countertop:

Quartz Countertops

Unlike Marble or Granite, Quartz countertops are relatively new to many interested buyers. Unlike other materials quartz is not made of natural stone; rather it is engineered.

Quartz Pros: Low Maintenance, Attractive look, Variety of Different Color Selection, Durability are benefits that meet most buyer’s expectations. Quartz has the same benefits as natural stones minus the weakness comes along with them.

Quartz Cons: Quartz is as expensive as other natural stones; however, it does not have the natural look of competing materials. The material is also not resistant to heat.

Granite Countertop:

Most of us are familiar with granite countertops. Granite is a natural stone which an aesthetic look to our kitchen and bathroom.

Pros: Granite Countertops come with its unique aesthetic and its shining expensive look. Certainly, the granite will appraise the look and worth of your home. As it is glamorous, granite is also very durable and susceptible to damages and scratches. Granite, unlike engineered materials, is susceptible to heat.

Cons: Each slab of granite is different. What you see in the showroom will very likely not have the same patterns that will be installed in your home.

Granite also does require regular maintenance. Each granite countertop will need to be resealed at least every 1 year; this timeline also depends on the end user and how much effort the household puts to protect the countertop.

Laminate Countertop:

The laminate was introduced as part of a kitchen design in late 50’s and ever since it has been one of widely used countertop material.

Pros: Unbeatably inexpensive comparing to other materials. Great option for those who prefer to make small touches to overall décor and to keep up with latest patterns and colors. It is also an amazing option for homeowners who are working on a very tight budget.

Cons: This is one example where low price comes at a cost. Laminates are usually insensitive to damage and scratches. The surface of the laminate will easily be melted and damage with a hot pot. Laminate also add little to no value to your house’s resale value. So, it is mostly for your visual appeal and its practical use.

Options are endless when deciding on your new countertop. The key to your decision will be based on your need and priority. Are you interested in durability, elegant and expensive look or modern though less elegance looks to keep everything within budget?